In a surprising turn of events, six-year NBA veteran Lonnie Walker IV is taking his talents overseas after being waived by the Boston Celtics out of training camp. According to his agent George S. Langberg, the 25-year-old shooting guard has inked a deal with Lithuanian basketball powerhouse Zalgiris Kaunas of the Euroleague.
The move comes as a shock to many NBA fans who expected Walker, the former 18th overall pick in the 2018 draft, to land with another NBA team after showing promise in his stints with the San Antonio Spurs, Los Angeles Lakers, and most recently, the Brooklyn Nets. Last season, Walker averaged a solid 9.7 points per game while shooting an impressive 38.4% from beyond the arc in limited minutes for the Nets.
A New Chapter in Lithuania
Despite his NBA pedigree, Walker now embarks on a new chapter in his professional career with one of Europe’s most storied clubs. Zalgiris Kaunas, based in the second-largest city in Lithuania, boasts an impressive resume that includes 23 Lithuanian League titles, 8 Baltic League championships, and a Euroleague title in 1999.
Lonnie is excited to join a team with such a rich history of success. He’s looking forward to contributing to Zalgiris’ winning tradition and proving himself on the European stage.
– Agent George S. Langberg
An Intriguing Contract Clause
Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of Walker’s deal with Zalgiris is the inclusion of an NBA buyout clause that runs through February 18th. This means that if an NBA team comes calling before that date, Walker could potentially return to the NBA this season.
The buyout clause adds an element of intrigue to Walker’s European journey. Will he light it up in the Euroleague and catch the eye of NBA scouts once again? Or will he find a new home in Lithuania and become a star abroad? Only time will tell.
A Chance to Shine
For Walker, the move to Zalgiris represents a chance to showcase his talents in a featured role. In his six NBA seasons, the 6’4″ guard never quite found his footing, often coming off the bench and playing limited minutes.
With Zalgiris, Walker will likely see an expanded role and have the opportunity to be a go-to scorer. His athleticism, shooting ability, and experience against NBA-level competition could make him a force to be reckoned with in the Euroleague.
I think this is a great opportunity for Lonnie to really show what he can do. He’s got all the tools to be a star in Europe, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he puts up big numbers for Zalgiris.
– Anonymous NBA Scout
A Trend of NBA Talent Moving Abroad?
Walker’s signing with Zalgiris Kaunas is part of a growing trend of NBA players taking their talents overseas. In recent years, several former NBA players have found success and lucrative contracts in leagues across Europe and Asia.
- Shane Larkin – former NBA player now starring for Anadolu Efes in Turkey
- Ekpe Udoh – former lottery pick who won a EuroLeague title with Fenerbahce
- Jimmer Fredette – former NCAA star who became a CBA MVP in China
While the NBA remains the pinnacle of professional basketball, the rise of competitive leagues abroad has created new opportunities for players to extend their careers and secure their financial futures.
Eyes on Zalgiris
As Lonnie Walker IV embarks on this new chapter, all eyes will be on Zalgiris Kaunas to see how he adapts to the European game. If he thrives, it could open the door for more NBA players to consider overseas options, especially those who find themselves on the fringes of NBA rosters.
For now, fans in Lithuania can look forward to seeing an athletic, skilled shooting guard bring a little NBA flair to the Euroleague. And who knows? Maybe we haven’t seen the last of Lonnie Walker IV in the NBA. But for the moment, his focus is on helping Zalgiris Kaunas win games and chase championships in one of Europe’s toughest leagues.
